The Internet is creating tremendous social, economic, and cultural value. Through digital connections, people are communicating with one another, overcoming social and political hierarchies, and building businesses around the world. Yet despite these positive benefits, many nations are experiencing slow-growing economies and barriers to innovation. In an era of limited growth, it has been difficult to lay the basis for long-term development.

On November 13, the Center for Technology Innovation at Brookings looked at ways to reform the U.S. economy, improve innovation, and address the difficult economic problems the country faces which demand new solutions. How can policymakers encourage growth through innovation? What areas offer the most promising growth for the 21st century? A panel of experts focused on broad topics in the areas of infrastructure, entrepreneurship, knowledge transmission, and protecting digital assets.